Heskey Suggests Pulisic as Potential Salah Successor at Liverpool
Speculation surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool is intensifying, with potential moves to Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer gaining traction. As the Egyptian superstar’s contract extends through 2027, a dip in recent form and reported frustrations have fueled discussions about potential replacements. Former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey believes that United States international Christian Pulisic could be a viable option to bolster Arne Slot’s attacking options, should Salah depart Anfield.
The Salah Situation: A Legacy Under Scrutiny
Mohamed Salah’s impact on Liverpool Football Club is undeniable. Since arriving from Roma in 2017, he has amassed an astonishing 252 goals in 429 appearances, securing three PFA Player of the Year awards and four Premier League Golden Boots. His contributions have been instrumental in Liverpool’s triumphs, including two Premier League titles, a Champions League victory, and numerous domestic cup successes. However, a recent decline in goalscoring form – failing to find the net in the Premier League since November 1st – coupled with visible displays of frustration, has prompted questions about his long-term commitment to the club.
The financial allure of the Saudi Pro League and the appeal of MLS represent potential destinations for Salah, offering Liverpool the opportunity to recoup a significant transfer fee. This has naturally led to discussions about identifying potential successors, players capable of filling the void left by one of the club’s most iconic figures.
Pulisic: A Familiar Face with Untapped Potential
Christian Pulisic, currently plying his trade with AC Milan, brings Premier League experience to the table, having previously featured for Chelsea. While his time at Stamford Bridge didn’t fully blossom into the prolific goalscoring form many anticipated, Heskey believes the American possesses qualities that could translate well to Liverpool’s system.
“I actually quite like Christian Pulisic,” Heskey stated in an interview. “He is very direct. He probably didn’t get as many goals as I would have liked him to get at Chelsea but I thought he gave defences problems. Obviously after a good World Cup, being at home with the pressure on him, he is definitely someone who could offer something different to Mohamed Salah or even Cody Gakpo right now.”
Heskey draws parallels to Salah’s own journey, noting the positive impact a change of scenery can have on a player’s career. “Mo left Chelsea to go to Italy and look at what he’s done for Liverpool. I think it’d be great to see someone like Pulisic come back into the Premier League in the same way because I’m guessing he would love to show that his time at Chelsea was just a little blip.”
Beyond Pulisic: Other Attacking Options for Liverpool
Heskey didn’t limit his suggestions to Pulisic, also highlighting other potential targets for Liverpool. Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon, a lifelong Liverpool supporter, was mentioned, alongside AC Milan’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen.
“We’re talking about replacing Mohamed Salah and I think as fans you’ve got to look at something different because you can’t replace Mo Salah,” Heskey emphasized. “I don’t think you can replace Mo Salah but I do like the lad from PSG, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. He would be my go-to.”
Regarding Bowen, Heskey acknowledged a potential difference in playing style but believes his work ethic could be a valuable asset. “Would Jarrod Bowen be a downgrade from Mohamed Salah? I think most players are a downgrade compared to Salah but to be honest with you Bowen is a different type of player and he would probably help the formation because he’s going to work a little bit harder than Mo.”
Heskey also pointed to the success of Andrew Robertson, signed from Hull City, as an example of identifying players who may not be household names but possess the qualities to thrive at Liverpool.
The potential shift in Liverpool’s tactical approach, with Arne Slot reportedly considering a 4-4-2 diamond midfield, could further influence the type of winger the club seeks. This formation may prioritize work rate and defensive contribution over traditional high-and-wide wingers, potentially making players like Jarrod Bowen more appealing.
What qualities do you believe are most important in a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah? And do you think Christian Pulisic has the potential to recapture the form he showed at Borussia Dortmund?
Frequently Asked Questions About Liverpool’s Potential Salah Replacement
Could Christian Pulisic realistically replace Mohamed Salah at Liverpool?
While Pulisic may not replicate Salah’s goalscoring record, his direct running style and Premier League experience make him a potentially valuable addition, particularly if Liverpool alters its tactical approach.
What other wingers are being considered as potential successors to Mohamed Salah?
Alongside Pulisic, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of PSG, Anthony Gordon of Newcastle, and Jarrod Bowen of West Ham have all been mentioned as potential targets for Liverpool.
Is Mohamed Salah definitely leaving Liverpool in 2026?
While Salah’s contract runs until 2027, his recent form and reported frustrations have fueled speculation about a potential departure, with moves to Saudi Arabia and MLS being discussed.
How important is Premier League experience when considering a replacement for Salah?
Premier League experience is considered a valuable asset, as players already familiar with the league’s physicality and pace can adapt more quickly. Pulisic and Bowen both possess this experience.
What impact would a change in formation have on Liverpool’s winger requirements?
A shift to a 4-4-2 diamond midfield could prioritize wingers with strong work rates and defensive contributions, potentially making players like Jarrod Bowen more suitable than traditional wide players.
Stay tuned to Archyworldys.com for the latest updates on Liverpool’s transfer activity and analysis of their potential replacements for Mohamed Salah.
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